China Visa Update — 29 October 2026
visa • 29 October 2026
China’s visa-free entry policy currently allows Australian passport holders to visit for up to **30 days without a visa** for tourism, business, family or friends visits, exchanges and transit. The arrangement is scheduled to run until **31 December 2026**, so Australians planning a late-2026 holiday should check the latest conditions before departure.[1][3] The 30-day period begins at midnight on the day after arrival. The exemption does not cover employment or study, and travellers undertaking those activities must obtain the appropriate visa in advance.[1] For trips extending beyond the permitted period—or if the policy is not renewed for 2027—Australians should allow time to apply for a tourist visa through the relevant Chinese visa application process. China’s broader visa facilitation measures continue to expand: the country’s **240-hour visa-free transit programme now covers 57 countries**, while Hainan’s separate 30-day visa-free scheme covers 61 countries.[2] These options are most useful for travellers combining China with another destination, but eligibility depends on nationality, route, approved ports and confirmed onward travel.Sources
- https://www.pulse.com.gh/story/china-allows-visitors-from-50-countries-to-stay-visa-free-for-30-days-see-full-list-2026102615181835035
- https://eu.36kr.com/en/p/4046367256794247
- https://china-panorama.com/en/china-visa-free-extension/
- https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/y9nq873pecwv/
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china-updates-visa-application-process-for-indians-new-rules-now-in-effect-101793002252514.html